Patna, Dec. 28: Japan Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda today offered infrastructure and intellectual support to Nalanda International University, coming up on the debris of the ancient seat of learning.

“Noda suggested Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar to identify the specific areas for collaboration and bilateral exchanges,” a communiqué issued by the chief minister’s office said. Nitish met the Japan Prime Minister in a New Delhi hotel today.

In course of his conversation with Nitish, Noda said Bihar, particularly Bodhgaya where Lord Gautam Buddha had attained enlightenment, was a favoured tourist destination for the Japanese people.

Noda expressed happiness at meeting Nitish and said that Bihar had progressed manifold in the recent past.

The chief minister thanked Noda for extending his support to the Nalanda University.